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Multiple Choice
The glycocalyx is ______ to the plasma membrane.
A
identical
B
embedded
C
internal
D
external
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'glycocalyx': it is a layer composed of polysaccharides that surrounds the outside of some cells, particularly in bacteria and animal cells.
Recall the location of the plasma membrane: it is the lipid bilayer that encloses the cytoplasm of the cell, serving as a boundary between the inside and outside of the cell.
Consider the relationship between the glycocalyx and the plasma membrane: since the glycocalyx is made of extracellular polysaccharides, it must be located outside the plasma membrane.
Eliminate incorrect options: 'identical' and 'internal' imply the glycocalyx is the same as or inside the plasma membrane, which is not true; 'embedded' suggests it is within the membrane, which is also incorrect.
Conclude that the glycocalyx is external to the plasma membrane, meaning it is located on the outside surface of the plasma membrane.